Erik Stokkebye 4th Generation 1897

Erik Stokkebye - 4th Generation 1897.

Lately I've been enjoying a rich aromatic for my fist smoke on a Friday morning, and today 1897 filled that spot.

It's a mid size ribbon, containing only about 20% Black Cavendish, is a bit too moist, and smells sweet. It packs and lights easily.

The smoke: although it has a similar make-up to Wild Hare that I posted yesterday, I much prefer it. I find the honey offers more flavour than the vanilla, causing the smoke to be pleasantly sweet. The vanilla can be tasted, but it takes a more work to pick it out. Of the tobaccos the Virginia occupies the most of the flavour, the Burley and Cav' give a lot less. 1897 burns at a medium pace, giving a cool, bite-free, smoke.

Nicotine: mild to medium. Room-note: heavenly.

Recommended.

I put 4 stars for their 1957 mixture which is fascinating. Their 1897 is less inspiring. Small honey flavour (which might be a bonus compared to the brands people who do not smoke think about when speaking about pipe tobacco...) in the tin and not really noticeable when smoking. That said it is worth a try.

Got this one a couple of years in a tobacco club selection. Being a curious smoker I popped the tin open, dumped in in my bacco plate and gave it a good mix up to let it breath. Tin note of Vanilla bean with faint honey essence, very pleasing to the nose. A bit wet but I loaded an old clean briar up and gave it a go. Found it to be weak and monotone but I pushed through none the less. Upon finishing the bowl I put the remainder of the tin in a mason jar, labeled it up and screwed the lid tight. No other contact with it besides the usual monthly shake up and moisture check of my cellar. A few days ago I decide that 2 plus of quite time was enough penal time for this lad so I loaded up a pipe and let the fire roll. Reading my previous notes I felt this blend had changed, it had become a good balanced smoke with both tobacco and dressing coming through in harmony. With that being said, it is not my favorite aro but it is a blend that merits a good word. If one likes vanilla Aros this tobacco is worth a try, aging may or may not be required. This blend as others I have rated stand on their own with no comparison to others. They are what they are, attempts to blend something that has taste appeal.

Like a few others, I quite liked this tobacco. There is a medium amount of vanilla and fruit flavors. It almost tastes a bit like fruit cake without all the spices. Its a nice quality tobacco and a great everyday sweet smoke that doesn't overpower you. I can't speak to people having wet tins, all of the tins I bought were as moist as they were supposed to be and all around it has been a good experience. I recommend this tobacco to anyone who enjoys lightly fruity aromatics.